There are many important things to consider before getting a dog, including which breeds aren’t suitable for your lifestyle
Bringing home your first dog is very exciting, yet it can also prove challenging. The Kennel Club highlights that there are several factors potential dog owners should consider before choosing a new four-legged friend.
This includes thinking carefully about the breed best suited to your lifestyle. According to a vet, there are five breeds that first-time owners ought to avoid. The advice was shared by Amir Anwary, a veterinarian who posts tips and tricks for pet owners on his popular account, @amirthevet.
In a TikTok video for his 850k followers, the expert shared: “Five dog breeds first-time owners shouldn’t get. Vet’s opinion…” He also explained the reasoning behind his choices, reports the Express.
Cane Corso
Amir warned: “Powerful guardian breed. Needs firm training, socialization, and structure. Without it, they can become aggressive or uncontrollable.”
According to PDSA, Cane Corsos are likely descended from a Roman war dog. “When war was over they were used as successful hunters and worked on farms, protecting, guarding and rounding up livestock.” They are relatively uncommon in the UK.
German Sheph
“Super intelligent and high-energy. They get bored fast, which leads to destructive behaviour if you don’t give them training, mental work, and exercise,” the vet wrote.
PDSA said: “German Shepherds were originally bred for herding and are now often used as working dogs for the police and armed forces. They are very loyal, intelligent and love to be kept active, so can be easy to train.
“They suit very active households as they need a lot of exercise every day. They are great dogs for owners with a lot of experience and time as, like most dogs, they can get bored easily.”
Border Collie
Amir explained: “The smartest dog out there. But that brain needs a job—herding, agility, advanced training. Without stimulation, they’ll literally herd your kids or destroy the house.”
PDSA added: “Border Collies are intelligent dogs who love to be on the go all the time! They thrive off plenty of exercise and lots to keep them occupied and are known for their stealth, speed and herding instinct.
“Originally bred for herding sheep, Border collies are still used as working dogs on farms today but have also become much loved family pets. They make the ideal dog for active owners who will take them out on plenty of adventures and make sure they have plenty to do all the time.”
Rottweiler
Amir stated: “Loyal and protective but very strong. If you don’t know how to train and manage their guarding instincts, they can become a liability.”
According to PDSA: “Rottweilers are loyal dogs, naturally protective and can fit in well with family life if well trained and kept occupied.
“Rottweilers are intelligent, large, powerful dogs. They thrive in a home with someone who understands the breed and recognises the need for early socialisation and consistent, reward-based training.”
Belgian Malinois
Amir said: “The ultimate working dog (think police/military). Endless energy and drive. If you’re not ready to give them hours of training and exercise daily, they’ll overwhelm you.”
American Kennel Club explained: “If you have ever seen a Mal perform an obedience routine, you know firsthand what a smart and eager breed this is. Problems set in, though, when this people-oriented dog is underemployed and neglected.”
Choosing a dog
The Kennel Club advises potential dog owners to research the breeds they are interested in, learning about their behaviour traits and needs. It’s also helpful to meet different breeds in person and talk to any friends or family members who already have dogs.
